She said that the flu usually peaks here between mid-January and mid-February. This year's numbers could point to an early flu season, she said, but "you really can't predict" what will happen over the next month.

While she spoke, hospital employees were stopping visitors on the first day of its flu screening. The screening of visitors will remain in place until the flu subsides.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting widespread flu outbreaks in 48 states, including New Jersey.

An average of five adults and two children daily are being seen in the Medical Center's emergency room because of the flu, said Horn. She said that the emergency room should be someone's "last resort. Aches and pains are normal. Stay home, get plenty of rest" and treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications, she advised.

However, if symptoms don't ease with time, or worsen, she said it's time to call the doctor.

Feeling miserable won't get someone admitted. What could, said Horn, is dehydration — more common in children with the flu — high fever (more than 103 degrees) or difficulty breathing, which usually happens in people with underlying illnesses, such as lung disease.

To help contain the spread of flu at the hospital, screenings started today. Between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Adult visitors and outpatients entering the hospital are screened for flu-like symptoms." According to hospital officials, visitors who are ill "will not be allowed to visit patients" and outpatients will get a mask.

Visitors under the age of 18 at the Medical Center aren't allowed to visit patients, said hospital spokeswoman Kathleen Seelig, in order to reduce the risk of spreading germs.

Visitors who don't have flu-like symptoms get a sticker to wear, showing that they have been screened.